Chandelier Re-Wiring

[Meta-Morphis]

Hi, I have gotten myself into restoring chandeliers (from around 1920's), and have reached the point of completing a restoration, except for one thing...

Re-wiring...

The wiring in itself looks simple enough, I just need to use the correct wire.

I am aware that as these are old chandeliers I do not need to use double insulated wiring, however, what should the spec of the cable be that goes down the main stem (the one that gets joined onto the house wiring).

I went to B & Q and bought some brassy coloured wire, which is 3 core and 3 amps... is this ok or should I look for something with more amps? Thanks.

 

[Taylortwocities]

The cable you propose should be OK for the job but in doing this work you are taking on personal liability for the work. Second hand/charity shops do not sell on electric products in a working condition for this reason.

To cover yourself you'd better be sure you properly test each item (flash, insulation, etc) and make sure that any external conductive parts are properly earthed. Oh and get yourself insured in case something you supply kills someone.

 

[Spark123]

I am aware that as these are old chandeliers I do not need to use double insulated wiring, however, what should the spec of the cable be that goes down the main stem (the one that gets joined onto the house wiring).

I find this a strange remark, if the wiring is inside the fitting i.e. not exposed then single insulated cables can be used, if it is on the outside then double insulated cables must be used. If the luminaire is an exposed conductive part then it needs to be earthed.
The last light which I rewired like this I used single insulated silicon sheathed cable inside the earthed metal tubes as the fittings got rather hot as they were enclosed. Lamp holders were brass.